Missing & Endangered Children (Runaways)

Endangered runaways are children under 18 who leave home or state care on their own and are missing, with no known whereabouts. They are considered endangered because they face high risks of homelessness, exploitation, and harm.

Who They Are

• Definition: A child under 18 who is missing voluntarily and whose location is unknown to their parent or guardian 
• Age profile: In 2023, 74% of endangered runaways reported to NCMEC were aged 15–17, and 48% were recovered.
• Scale: 93% of missing child reports in 2026 were of endangered runaways.

Risk Factors

Runaways often leave due to a mix of “push” (problems at home) and “pull” (attractive but dangerous situations). Common risk factors include:

The risk factors for running away from home or state care are multifaceted, and there is no typical Endangered Runaway.

The following factors may put youth at an increased risk of running away or becoming homeless:

• Physical or sexual abuse
• Family conflict
• Mental health struggles
• Substance abuse
• Medical issue/developmental or physical disability
• Social rejection, bullying, or online enticement
• To be with a friend, romantic partner, or biological family
• Pregnancy
• Gang activity
• Child sex trafficking
• Social rejection or bullying

Why They’re at Risk

• Exploitation: NCMEC estimates 1 in 7 endangered runaways in 2026 were likely victims of child sex trafficking.
• Homelessness: Many experience homelessness while missing.
• Predator targeting: Runaways are more vulnerable to predators who know how to find them.

What’s Being Done

• American Rescue Project:
  • Partners with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
  • Partners with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
  • Helps create and distribute missing child posters via private-sector photo partners.
  • Runs public awareness campaigns, including the “Runaway Train” music video project.
• NCMEC (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children):
  • Partners with the National Runaway Safeline and evidence-based prevention curricula.
  • Provides crisis intervention, counseling referrals, and reunification support.
  • Creates and distributes missing child posters via private-sector photo partners.
  • Runs public awareness campaigns, including the “Runaway Train” music video project.
• National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Child Protection Task Force (NCPTF):
  • Conducts Missing Child Rescue Operations with law enforcement.
  • Identifies patterns and supports trauma-informed recovery.
  • Connects children to medical, counseling, and housing resources.

How Can We Help

• If you have a missing child: Contact us on our 24-hour hotline at 602-585-5929 or report online on our front page intake form.
• If you see a missing child: Share information with local law enforcement and let us know.
• If you’re a runaway: You are not alone — we can help you reunite with your family and friends.

Bottom line: Endangered runaways are a major segment of missing children in the U.S., and every minute they are missing increases their risk. Public awareness, prevention programs, and rapid response are critical to keeping them safe.

Our Mission: Is to never treat your case like it’s just another runaway. We will chase down leads and coordinate with local law enforcement in a joint effort to bring your loved ones home.